Enugu Government Vows Crackdown on Illegal Revenue Taskforce

The Enugu State Government has pledged to investigate and arrest individuals operating an unauthorized revenue taskforce accused of extorting scavengers in the state. The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made this announcement on Tuesday in Enugu, condemning the activities of the illegal group and assuring that those involved would face legal action.

Onyia clarified that while the government has established a committee to address issues related to scavengers, no official taskforce has been authorized to collect revenue for environmental matters. He emphasized that any group currently demanding payments from scavengers is acting without government approval.

“We will investigate and identify those behind this illegal taskforce. We have substantial evidence, and we are working to trace where the collected funds were deposited,” Onyia stated. He urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid making payments to individuals or groups falsely claiming to be government-appointed revenue collectors.

In response to the situation, Governor Peter Mbah has ordered that all illegally collected funds be recovered immediately. The state government is also working to strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent future cases of unauthorized revenue collection.

Authorities have warned that anyone caught participating in or supporting such illegal activities will be prosecuted. The government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and ensuring that revenue collection processes are carried out lawfully.